David McGuffin's Exploring Europe

Day 49

Santorini Sunset

The Greek island of Santorini is known for its fantastic views at sunset. The town of Oia is the best location because of its unobstructed views to the west. I was fortunate to have two beautiful days on the island to experience these brilliant sunsets. Click the picture to watch the video.

Day 50

Santorini Sunset Cruise

The island of Santorini is on everyone’s list of must-see sights when visiting Greece. The island and the surrounding sea is truly beautiful, but the tourist towns of Fira and Oia can get really crowded, especially when a cruise ship arrives in port. The perfect solution is to charter a private sailing tour in the caldera (the blown out part of the volcano that has filled with water). Seven of us hired a boat, captain and 1st mate for a 5-hour cruise “vacation” away from the crowded towns. It was fantastic! Click the picture to watch the video.

Day 51

Rome, the Roman Forum

I’ve flown a few hundred miles back west and have arrived in the Eternal City! Rome is one of my favorite big cities because it really is compact… not sprawling like London. Visiting the ancient Roman Forum is a great way to begin our adventures in Rome. Click the picture to watch the video.

Day 52

The Colosseum

When I was a kid I saw the film “Dr. Dolittle” and I remember the doctor singing “I’ve seen the Colosseum in Rome and the Acropolis… but I’ve never seen anything quite like this (referring to talking to the animals). In the course of one week I’ve seen both landmarks too. Bella! Click the picture to watch the video.

Day 53

The Vatican Museum

This place is huge and always crowded. There over nine miles of artwork in the chapels, rooms, and passageways of this former Vatican Palace, which has been the home to many Popes. Click the picture to watch the video.

Day 54

The Sistine Chapel

Did you know that in 1508 when Pope Julius II asked Michelangelo to begin work on the ceiling, Michelangelo wanted nothing to do with it because he was a sculptor and had never even dabbled in the art of fresco. Over the course of 4 years he learned! Click the picture to watch the video.

Day 55

Saint Peter’s Basilica

Saint Peter’s Basilica is the largest Catholic church in the world. The Holy Door has been unsealed and opened by the Pope to begin a “year of mercy”. Typically, the door is opened only every 50 years. The last time it was opened was in 2000. Have you ever seen the Holy Door opened at the Vatican? Click the picture to watch the video.